Blues, Reds to clash in Samoan Super Rugby first

RUGBY UNION: Samoa is to host its first Super Rugby game with Auckland-based Blues to host Queensland Reds in June.

The Blues confirmed the match would be played in Apia on June 2.

It comes after the Chiefs last year hosted the Crusaders in Fiji, where both teams will play again in 2017.

Blues chief executive Michael Redman and Samoan prime minister Tuilaepa Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi announced the game would take place under lights at Apia Park, where the All Blacks faced Samoa in a historic Test two years ago.

Blues` head coach Tana UmagaDAVID ROWLAND

"When we assessed all of our options within our region, taking this game to Samoa became an obvious choice,” he said.

"Our Blues region is home to around 150,000 proud Samoans and we have 15 players in our team with Samoan heritage, along with our head coach Tana Umaga.”

Umaga said the game will be an emotional one for he and his players.

"As someone with Samoa heritage, I am very proud to be part of the first Super Rugby match played in Samoa and of course a number of our team have family members living there.”